Mataram, September 21, 2025 – The Postgraduate Program of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram successfully held a seminar titled “Strengthening Dharmikas Mentality as an Actualization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” on Sunday, September 21, 2025. The event took place in the meeting hall, 2nd floor of the Rectorate Building, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram.
The seminar began with an opening address by the Head of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Ardhi Wirawan, S.Pd., S.Ag., M.Si. In his remarks, he emphasized that the program was part of the institution’s effort to support the government’s SDGs agenda. He further highlighted that the goal of the seminar was to strengthen the mental resilience of Hindu adherents (dharmika). He also expressed gratitude for the sincere support of the academic community, which ensured the event ran smoothly.
This was followed by remarks from the Head of the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), Dr. Ni Luh Sinar Ayu Ratna Dewi, SS., M.Ag. She underlined the importance of diversity and harmony, sharing her own experience of being raised in a pluralistic family. She reminded the participants that achieving noble goals always requires a meaningful process.
The Rector of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram, Prof. Dr. Ir. I Wayan Wirata, A.Ma., S.E., M.Si., M.Pd., then delivered his speech and officially opened the seminar. He noted that today’s dharmikas already possess fundamental character values. Drawing on universal Hindu teachings, he emphasized that when one follows the righteous path (dharma), obstacles can be overcome, and life quality can be improved. He also praised the current generation of dharmika for their symbolic strength and motivation, citing their courage in performing traditional practices such as mekidung, mebanten, dancing, and other religious activities. At the end of his remarks, he conveyed a message: "Be a Dharmika of quality, devotion, and courtesy."
The seminar was attended by academic leaders and officials of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram, along with groups of dharmika. In this context, the term dharmika refers to individuals who previously embraced a non-Hindu faith and have now chosen to follow Hinduism. Their presence gave the seminar both academic and spiritual depth, reflecting the living practice of Hindu dharma in contemporary society.
After the presentation sessions by the keynote speakers, the program continued with an interactive discussion. The dharmika participants enthusiastically engaged, asking questions and sharing their experiences about embracing Hindu values in their daily lives. This interactive exchange created a warm and meaningful atmosphere that enriched the overall seminar.
The seminar also highlighted the relevance of Hindu teachings to the Sustainable Development Goals. By fostering mental strength and resilience, the program contributes directly to the SDGs’ emphasis on good health and well-being, as well as quality education through values-based learning. Participants were reminded that personal development and community harmony are integral parts of building a sustainable society.
Moreover, the event showcased how local religious wisdom can be aligned with global initiatives. The focus on strengthening dharmic mentality not only supports spiritual growth but also resonates with SDGs such as reduced inequalities and peace, justice, and strong institutions. By empowering dharmika through knowledge, harmony, and resilience, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram demonstrated its role in actualizing sustainability at both the local and global levels.
The seminar presented insightful discussions led by distinguished speakers: Prof. Dr. Ir. I Wayan Wirata, A.Ma., S.E., M.Si., M.Pd. and Prof. Dr. I Wayan Ardhi Wirawan, S.Pd., S.Ag., M.Si. Their sessions offered valuable perspectives on the role of Hindu values in achieving mental strength and contributing to the global SDGs framework.The event reflected IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram’s ongoing commitment to linking Hindu dharmic principles with global sustainability efforts, while nurturing resilience and harmony within its community.
(By DKS)